5 key takeaways from Jets vs. Steelers Week 7 SNF showdown

The Pittsburgh Steelers are, at least for the time being, the best team in the AFC North again. Buoyed by a strong debut from quarterback Russell Wilson (16/29 completed, 264 yards, two touchdowns) and a breakout performance by rookie cornerback Beanie Bishop Jr. (six tackles, all but one of them solo; two interceptions), they beat the New York Jets 37-15 on Sundy.

Here are the five most salient talking points from the game.

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#5 Darnell Washington is proving to be an underrated offensive contributor

Pittsburgh Steelers v Indianapolis Colts - Source: Getty

Darnell Washington had his best receiving game on Sunday, catching four passes for 36 yards. At six-foot-seven and 264 lbs., he has been used mainly as a run-blocker; but should he stay healthy and improve his pass-catching game, he could be a nightmare for opposing secondaries.

Just ask Denver Broncos safety PJ Locke, who attempted to stop him once in Week 2 but was utterly destroyed.

#4 Davante Adams shows heart in Jets debut

NFL: New York Jets at Pittsburgh Steelers - Source: Imagn

As soon as he was traded to the Jets, Davante Adams flew to East Rutherford and started practicing. Such dedication allowed him to start on Sunday.

He was subpar as a receiver, with only three catches for 30 yards and no touchdowns. But his biggest play was a tackle on the aforementioned Beanie Bishop Jr. that prevented a touchdown.

If he can instill such courage and heart within the rest of the organization, they might be about to foster a new culture - hopefully one that leads to more wins.

#3 Beanie Bishop Jr. is another Steelers secondary star in the making

Pittsburgh Steelers v Denver Broncos - Source: Getty

Speaking of Beanie Bishop Jr., he could add his name to the conversation of future Steelers to watch out for.

Making just his second career start, he proved that he belongs, picking off the legendary Aaron Rodgers twice, with the second one prevented from being a touchdown only by the quick thinking of Davante Adams.

With Donte Jackson set to be a free agent in 2025, don't be surprised if he becomes a primary starter beside Joey Porter Jr. by then.

#2 Aaron Rodgers must retire after this season

Buffalo Bills v New York Jets - Source: Getty

"Expectations" is one of the strongest words in sports. Meet or exceed them, and people are sure to hail you as the next big thing, or at least someone with much value. Miss them, and those same fans will turn on you and start wondering where everything went wrong.

As a Jet, Aaron Rodgers has done nothing but missed expectations since his return to the field. Last week, with the AFC East lead on the line, he crumbled late, throwing an interception. On Sunday, he was picked off twice, his efficiency seemingly continuing to disappear.

The message is clear: Rodgers is no longer a top-10 quarterback. So, it's perhaps time for him to hang up his cleats and step aside for the future phenom that's Jordan Travis.

#1 A QB controversy will emerge in Pittsburgh

NFL: Houston Texans at Pittsburgh Steelers - Source: Imagn

Russell Wilson or Justin Fields - that was the major debate surrounding the Steelers in the offseason and preseason. Now that debate has reemerged in the regular season.

With both posting spectacular performances in game situations, Mike Tomlin and Omar Khan will have a good problem on their hands once the season ends. Will they commit to one of them long-term, or will they start anew?

With the 2025 Draft not quite having the best quarterback class, all eyes will be on the two players as they attempt to beat each other for the right to lead the team moving forward.